How the change of seasons can affect us.

The temperature has dropped, days are getting shorter and the leaves are changing colour - it can only mean one thing: Summer has gone and Autumn has arrived.

There are many who suffer signs of unrest during the change of seasons. It is believed that it is partly due to the effects and influences that light and weather exert upon us.

Due to reduced daylight hours in the colder seasons and the reduction of active hours many may suffer from seasonal affective disorder commonly referred to as SAD.

SAD is associated with the months of Autumn and Winter.

Some of the symptoms are

• Moodiness
• Low energy
• Difficulty in sleeping
• A lack of interest in activities
• Feeling hopeless
• Depression
• Irritable
• Withdrawn
• Increased tiredness
• Lack of concentration

While some of the above symptoms can occur in the Autumn and Winter months, the truth is that every season there is a possibility that one can present a physical condition, or symptom associated with weather conditions such as humidity, temperature or pressure.

What can you do about it?

Whether you suffer from SAD or not there are 3 things that will help you manage any seasonal change/s.

Exercise

• Regular exercise can boost your mood if you have depression.
• Releasing feel-good endorphins that can enhance your sense of well-being.
• Taking your mind off worries so you can get away from the cycle of negative thoughts that feed depression and anxiety.
• Regular exercise has many psychological and emotional benefits. It can help you to gain and boost confidence, meet exercise goals or challenges, even small ones.
• Getting in shape can also make you feel better about your appearance.
• Get more social interaction. Exercise and physical activity may give you the chance to meet or socialise with others. Just exchanging a friendly smile can help your mood.

More light

• Getting a sufficient amount of vitamin D. Our bodies needs vitamin D, it is important for normal growth and development of bones and teeth, as well as improved resistance against certain diseases. Exposure to a couple of minutes of sunlight will provide you with an energy and emotional boost.

Talk about it!

• Sharing how you feel is one of the most positive things to do. 'A problem shared is a problem halved.'

Autumn Action Plan:

1. Breathe in the cool crisp air
2. Go for a walk
3. Collect colourful leaves that have fallen to the ground
4. Plant bulbs in your garden for next spring
5. Be playful and jump in a pile of leaves
6. Run
7. Take a drive in the country
8. Go apple picking and bake an apple pie
9. Make butternut squash soup – yum!
10. Don't forget to add Pilates to your day.

I'm sure you can dream up many more activities and fun things to do this Autumn. 😉

We look forward to seeing your smiling and happy self in our Studios this Autumn.